Roxbury Community College logo

Roxbury Community College

Roxbury Crossing, MA

publicassociates

Quick Facts

1973
Founded
Public community college
Type
2,382
Total Students
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: President

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Roxbury Community College

Roxbury Community College: A Legacy of Activism, Opportunity, and Community Impact.

Roxbury Community College (RCC) stands as a powerful testament to community activism and a beacon of educational opportunity in Boston. Founded in 1973 after decades of dedicated organizing within Boston's Black community, RCC's roots are deeply intertwined with the fight for social justice and equitable access to education. It has since grown into a vital institution, renowned for fostering student success and contributing significantly to the region's socio-economic landscape. In 2021, its profound impact was formally recognized when it was named the second most influential community college in the nation.

RCC offers a comprehensive learning environment, featuring specialized science and computer laboratories, and a re-established nursing program that welcomed new students in Fall 2021. Beyond academics, the campus is a hub for community engagement, housing the Reggie Lewis Track & Athletic Center and the RCC Media Arts Center, which serve both students and the wider Boston area. As a Predominately Black Institution (PBI) since 2021, RCC is dedicated to enhancing educational success for Black students, providing targeted resources and support.

The college prides itself on a student-centric experience, where opportunity is often met with remarkable generosity. A poignant example occurred in 2022, when philanthropists Robert and Karen Hale gifted $1,000 to every graduate during commencement, underscoring the community's belief in RCC students. From its role in stopping the proposed I-95 extension in 1972 through community activism, to its continuous adaptation and commitment to its students, Roxbury Community College remains a dynamic force, preparing its diverse student body for impactful futures.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1973 following decades of community activism in Boston.
  • Ranked as the second most influential community college in the nation in 2021.
  • Designated a Predominately Black Institution (PBI) by the U.S. Department of Education in 2021, targeting Black students' educational success.
  • Houses a 16-acre, six-building campus with specialized science and computer laboratories.
  • Features the Reggie Lewis Track & Athletic Center and the RCC Media Arts Center.
  • Each 2022 graduate received a $1,000 gift from philanthropists Robert and Karen Hale.
  • Played a pivotal role in the 1972 anti-highway movement, preventing an 8-mile extension of Interstate 95.

Timeline

1968
Massachusetts legislature officially established a community college at Roxbury.
1973
Roxbury Community College opened its doors to 400 students.
1982
Brunetta Wolfman elected as RCC's first female president.
1988
The college's current campus at 1234 Columbus Avenue opened.
2020
RCC developed a new nursing program, provisionally approved by BORN.
2021
Named the second most influential community college in the nation.
2021
Classified as a Predominately Black Institution (PBI) by the Department of Education.
2022
Philanthropists Robert and Karen Hale provided $1,000 to each graduate.
2023
Celebrated 50th anniversary, commemorating community activism against the I-95 extension.
2024
Dr. Jonathan K. Jefferson named the 18th President.
🏛️
53 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

President
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Roxbury Community College

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search